| Country: | Estonia |
| Details of Formation: | Originally formed in 1981, this group became a PGM when Estonia gained its independence. In 1992 it was formally integrated into the defence forces. |
| Details of Termination: | There is some evidence that the group still exists in 2002. In 1992 it became part of the state’s defence forces. |
| Purpose: | The Group was meant to help with law enforcement by assisting police officers and maintaining public order (e.g by patrolling, putting out wildfires, ensuring public safety), as well as to augment Estonia’s defence capacities. |
| Organisation: | Kaitseliit is controlled by the Defence Ministry and funded by the Estonian government. It is commanded by Brigadier general Meelis Kiili and divided into 15 regional units. |
| Weapons and Training: | The group was armed with mortars, guns, semi-automatic rifles, Kalashnikovs and grenade launchers. Members also received training as assistant police officers. |
| Size: | The group included 6000 members in 1992 and was projected to increase to 40,000. |
| Reason for Membership: | -- |
| Treatment of Civilians: | There were two reported instances of the group injuring civilians, one in which a member accidentally shot a mortar bomb into a house, and another in which two members shot at a car, injuring three people. |
| Other Information: | This group has a website http://www.kaitseliit.ee/en/edl Affiliate groups include "Women's home defence" "Young Eagles" and "Home daughters". |
| References: |
Information was taken from news sources listed in the PGMD. Wikipedia. Estonian Defence League. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Estonian_Defence_League&oldid=748784687 |